S2 E3 | What Australians think about...languages other than English

In a nation where over 300 languages reverberate from homes, workplaces, and public spaces, language is more than just a communication tool—it's a cultural lifeline that bridges our diverse communities.

Our linguistic diversity isn't just colourful, it's vital and influential. It's a Punjabi in radio podcast serving up global affairs alongside local news, it's a crucial health announcement rendered in Somali to ensure every community member is informed, it's the heart-warming banter between a shop owner and customers in Italian, across a bustling Lygon Street in Melbourne.

 

This linguistic diversity shapes our individual identities, our daily experiences, and the character of our public discourse. Yet, the role and influence of non-English languages continue to prompt discussions that stretch into the heart of cultural integration, societal cohesion, and the concept of belonging.

 

In this episode, we delve into the nuances in Australia’s linguistic diversity, exploring their far-reaching impact from business interactions to media broadcasts and government communications, and their ripple effect on our society's cohesion and shared, multicultural story.

Voices of Australia is a Scanlon Foundation Research Institute podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes to info@scanloninstitute.org.au